Information processing apparatus and information processing method

ABSTRACT

A recording unit ( 3 ) for recording image information and/or audio information onto a replaceable tape-shaped recording medium ( 10 ), filing units ( 5 ), ( 8 ) for filing the image information and/or the audio information which have been written onto the replaceable tape-shaped recording medium ( 10 ) by the recording unit ( 3 ), and a file information writing/reading unit ( 6 ) for writing/reading, in a non-contact state, file information of file into a random accessible memory unit ( 22 ) provided in a manner associated with the replaceable tape-shaped recording medium ( 10 ) are provided to thereby realize an information processing apparatus.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processingapparatus and an information processing method which perform, as file,management of image information and/or audio information recorded on atape-shaped recording medium.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Realization of network for conducting transmission/receptionbetween computers which handle various digital data is advancing.

[0003] Meanwhile, a large number of VTRs (Video Tape Recorders), whichload a video cassette provided with a tape-shaped magnetic recordingmedium (hereinafter referred to as a magnetic tape as occasion maydemand) to record image information and/or audio information onto thetape-shaped magnetic recording medium, and/or reproduce imageinformation and/or audio information which have been recorded, are usedin various fields because long time recording can be realized by usingthe tape-shaped magnetic recording medium, and the video cassette isremoval medium and can be carried with ease.

[0004] Accordingly, transfer of image information and/or audioinformation to and from external unit is realized by making use of theabove-described network so that VTRs can freely conducttransmission/reception of information within the magnetic tape. Fromthis fact, their use purposes are greatly improved. For this reason,there has been a great demand for realization of network of VTR.

[0005] In response thereto, there is devised a technique of conductingtransmission/reception of image information and/or audio informationfrom VTR to external unit on the network, e.g., computer by using widelyused protocol such as FTP (File Transfer Protocol), etc.

[0006] Since it is necessary for the purpose of transferring data toexternal unit on the network to constitute, as file, data to betransferred to conduct file management by file system, file system hasbeen introduced into VTRs in which concept of file did not exist in theprior art because research of image information or audio informationcould be sufficiently made by visual sense or auditory sense of user.

[0007] In general, in the file system, data recorded on recording mediumis constituted as file to collectively perform management of processingrelating to file operation such as read processing, write processing,delete processing and/or updating processing for file on the basis ofinformation such as file name, file size, file preparation date and fileupdating date, etc.

[0008] Moreover, in the file system in which management of filesrecorded on recording medium is conducted on the file basis as describedabove, management is ordinarily performed in the state where datarecording area of the recording medium is divided into a record entry(RE) area where files are recorded and a Free Space List (FSL) areawhere no file is recorded.

[0009] In the file system, in the case where new file is prepared,whether or not space (empty) area exists in the Free Space List (FSL)area is first retrieved. In the file system, in the case where space(empty) area exists in the Free Space List (FSL) area, there isconducted such a processing as to register that area into the RecordEntry (RE) area to prepare a new file, and to delete file from the FreeSpace List (FSL) area.

[0010] However, in the file system of information processing apparatususing tape medium as recording medium like VTR, since system datanecessary for file management is written at the leading position of thetape medium, there is required an operation to necessarily rewind tapemedium up to the leading position to read system data into memory, atthe time of starting of the information processing apparatus, orimmediately after removal medium is loaded into: the informationprocessing apparatus in the case where tape medium is removal medium.For this reason, there is a problem that such operation is verytroublesome.

[0011] Further, in the case, e.g., where the content of file isrewritten, there is required an operation to rewind the tape mediumuntil the leading position to update system data, or to temporarilystore system data to be updated into a non-volatile memory, etc. in thecase where the tape medium is removal medium to rewind the tape at thetime of taking out of the tape medium to write the data at apredetermined position. For this reason, there is a problem that suchoperation is very troublesome.

[0012] Further, since VTR can sequentially provide access to themagnetic tape in accordance with command input by user, in the casewhere file system as described above is provided, there is a possibilitythat read processing and/or write processing of data may be performed bysequential access, i.e., through path except for the file system so thatdata is newly written into the data area of the file recorded on themagnetic tape. As a result, there is a problem that the file data wouldbe broken.

[0013] Furthermore, the data constituting a file of which the filesystem performs management have correlation to each other, and are notindependent in ordinary state. Such data do not become significantindependent data until they are caused to be unit of file. However,since image file consisting of image data has the configuration in whichplural GOPs (Group of Pictures) which are information completed bythemselves are collected, significant independent data would existwithin the file even if data is not caused to be of file unit.

[0014] For example, in the case where image data are handled inbroadcasting services, etc., image file in which data serving asmaterial have been recorded for a long time period is first generated.Then, only images necessary for broadcasting are extracted from thematerial to further add other image data to the extracted image data tothereby prepare image file for broadcasting. That is, independentarbitrary image data is extracted from a predetermined image file, etc.thus to prepare new image file.

[0015] Meanwhile, in the case where a desired information is retrievedfrom information recorded on a magnetic tape, e.g., video information oraudio information, Time Code (TC) information indicating recording timeof the information recorded at a predetermined track provided in thelongitudinal direction on the magnetic tape at the time of recording theinformation or Control signal (CTL) used for tape drive servo control isused.

[0016] For example, at VTRs, when user retrieves desired informationfrom information recorded on the magnetic tape provided within a videocassette, the magnetic tape was caused to be run up to the positionwhere the information has been recorded by making use of Time Code (TC)recorded along with the information to conduct retrieval.

[0017] However, Time Code (TC) to be recorded onto the magnetic tape isnot information indicating absolute position, on the magnetic tape, ofvideo information and/or audio information which have been recorded onthe magnetic tape, but is information indicating relative position withrecording start point of video information or audio information being asa reference such that starting point of Time Code (TC) can be changed byuser.

[0018] Accordingly, since it frequently takes place that the same TimeCodes (TCs) exist on the magnetic tape, there was a problem that it isvery difficult to retrieve information that user desires frominformation which have been recorded on the magnetic tape by using onlyTime code (TC) information.

[0019] For this reason, user has ensured retrieval of a desiredinformation based on Time Code (TC) information as described above byactually reproducing the magnetic tape to confirm the informationretrieval by visual sense or auditory sense. However, informationretrieval dependent upon visual sense or auditory sense of user isreliable, but results in the problem that such retrieval is sotroublesome that it takes much time.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

[0020] An object of the present invention is to provide an informationprocessing apparatus which facilitates access to a file system forconducting management of files recorded on a tape-shaped recordingmedium, an information processing apparatus which performs management offiles to be recorded onto a tape-shaped recording medium by using filesystem, and which can record information onto the tape-shaped recordingmedium without using the file system, an information processingapparatus capable of freely preparing file irrespective of the filesystem in the case where data consisting of independent data, e.g., GOP,etc. like image information are recorded on a tape-shaped recordingmedium, and an information processing apparatus which can securelyprovide access to information which have been recorded on a tape-shapedrecording medium without relying upon visual sense or auditory sense ofuser.

[0021] An information processing apparatus according to the presentinvention comprises: recording means for recording image informationand/or audio information onto a replaceable tape-shaped recordingmedium; filing means for filing the image information and/or the audioinformation which have been written on the replaceable tape-shapedrecording medium by the recording means; and file informationwriting/reading means for writing and reading, in a non-contact state,file information of the file into random accessible memory meansprovided in a manner associated with the replaceable tape-shapedrecording medium.

[0022] This information processing apparatus can easily acquire fileinformation of files recorded on the tape-shaped recording medium fromthe random accessible memory means by the file informationwriting/reading means.

[0023] An information processing method according to the presentinvention includes: recording image information and/or audio informationonto a replaceable tape-shaped recording medium; filing the imageinformation and/or the audio information which have been written on thereplaceable tape-shaped recording medium; writing, in a non-contactstate, file information of the file into random accessible memory meansprovided in a manner associated with the replaceable tape-shapedrecording medium; and reading, in a non-contact state, file informationof the file which has been written into the memory means.

[0024] This information processing method can easily acquire, from therandom accessible memory means, file information of files which havebeen recorded on the tape-shaped recording medium.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025]FIG. 1 is a block diagram for explaining the essential partconfiguration of VTR shown as an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026]FIG. 2 is a view for explaining the essential part configurationof magnetic tape drive unit in the VTR.

[0027]FIG. 3 is a flowchart for explaining file transmitting operationin the VTR.

[0028]FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining file receiving operation inthe VTR.

[0029]FIG. 5 is a flowchart for explaining, in the VTR, the operation inwriting information onto magnetic tape without use of file system.

[0030]FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining, in the VTR, the operation torecord information onto recording medium to prepare file by using filesystem.

[0031]FIG. 7A is a view showing, in the VTR, the state where one file isrecorded on magnetic tape.

[0032]FIG. 7B is a view showing, in the VTR, the state where informationis newly recorded on the magnetic tape shown in FIG. 7A to file it.

[0033]FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining, in the VTR, the operation toprepare file from information which has been recorded on recordingmedium without use of file system.

[0034]FIG. 9A is a view showing, in the VTR, the state where informationwhich has already been recorded on magnetic tape is filed.

[0035]FIG. 9B is a view showing, in the VTR, the state where theinformation of file shown in FIG. 9A are caused to overlap to preparenew file.

[0036]FIG. 10 is a view showing an example of a file to be prepared inthe VTR.

[0037]FIG. 11 is a view showing constants and variables used incalculating winding radius information in the VTR.

[0038]FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining, in the VTR, the operationwhen access to a predetermined file on magnetic tape is provided.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0039] Embodiments of an information processing apparatus and aninformation processing method according to the present invention willnow be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0040] The present invention is applied to a Video Tape Recorder.(hereinafter referred to as VTR) shown as a block diagram in FIG. 1. TheVTR shown as an embodiment of the present invention is an apparatusadapted for loading a video cassette provided with a tape-shapedmagnetic recording medium (hereinafter referred to as magnetic tape)into a video cassette loading unit (not shown), and capable ofconducting recording of video (image) signals and/or audio signals ontothe magnetic tape, or reproducing the signals from the magnetic tapethereof by file management based on the file system, or conducting suchoperation without intervention of the file system. A video signal to berecorded onto the magnetic tape is inputted from external unit (notshown) through a predetermined network, and a video signal reproducedfrom the magnetic tape is outputted to external unit (not shown) througha predetermined network.

[0041] The VTR comprises a network interface (referred to as network I/Fas occasion may demand) 1, a buffer memory 2, a VTR system unit 3, acontrol panel 4, a file system control unit 5, an encoder/decoder(hereinafter referred to as ENC/DEC) 6, a memory 7 for file system, anda CPU 8.

[0042] The network interface 1 is an interface for connecting the VTRand external unit through network. Video signals and/or audio signalsare inputted from external unit to the VTR through the network interface1.

[0043] The network to which the VTR is connected through the networkinterface 1 is, for example, LAN (Local Area Network), etc., whereinEthernet (Registered Trademark) is used as protocol which covers aportion of data link layer of OSI (Open Systems Interconnection)reference model and physical layer, TCP (Transmission ControlProtocol)/IP (Internet Protocol) is used as protocol which coversnetwork layer and transport layer, and FTP (File Transfer Protocol) isused as protocol which covers session layer, presentation layer andapplication layer, thereby making it possible to transmit and/or receivevideo information and/or audio information.

[0044] The network interface 1 is, for example., NIC (Network InterfaceCard) which is a dedicated board for network connection, and is providedwith a connector to which LAN cable for high speed data transmission inwhich data transfer rate is 10 M bps, 100 Mbps and, further, 1 Gbps canbe connected.

[0045] Video signals and/or audio signals inputted from the networkinterface 1 are sent to the buffer memory 2 of the succeeding stage, atwhich they are temporarily buffered. The signals thus obtained arefurther sent to the VTR system unit 3.

[0046] Moreover, video signals and/or audio signals reproduced at theVTR system unit 3 at the time of reproduction in a manner describedlater are outputted to the buffer memory 2, at which they aretemporarily buffered. The signals thus obtained are sent to externalunit through the network interface 1 of the succeeding stage.

[0047] The network interface 1 sends, to the file system control unit 5,command, such as FTP command, etc. for the file system control unit 5which is transmitted from external unit through the network.

[0048] The VTR system unit 3 serves to load a video cassette 10 providedwith magnetic tape into video cassette loading unit (not shown) toexecute recording onto the magnetic tape of video signals and/or audiosignals sent from the above-described buffer memory 2, and reproductionof video signals and/or audio signals recorded on the magnetic tape.

[0049] The VTR system unit 3 comprises a magnetic tape drive unit fordriving magnetic tape of the loaded video cassette 10, and a signalprocessing section for executing recording signal processing forperforming conversion into a predetermined signal form optimum forrecording video signals and/or audio signals inputted from the buffermemory 2 onto the magnetic tape, and reproduction signal processing forreproducing video signals and/or audio signals recorded on the magnetictape to convert them into signals of a predetermined signal form.

[0050] When the video cassette 10 is loaded into loading unit (notshown), for example, the magnetic tape drive unit draws out the magnetictape 11, as shown in FIG. 2, from the casing (hereinafter the casing ofthe video cassette 10 is referred to as cassette half) of the videocassette 10 by tape loading mechanism. The magnetic tape 11 which hasbeen drawn out is wound at a predetermined winding angle and at apredetermined tension onto a rotation drum 14 including recordingmagnetic heads and reproduction magnetic heads which are not shown viatape guides 13 from a supply reel (hereinafter referred to as S reel)12, and is passed through a path put between a capstan 15 for runningthe magnetic tape 11 at a predetermined speed and a pinch roller 16.Thus, the magnetic tape 11 arrives at a winding reel (hereinafterreferred to as T reel) 17.

[0051] At the S reel 12, the capstan 15 and the T reel 17, there arerespectively provided S reel motor, capstan motor and T reel motor (notshown) which are dedicated power units for rotationally driving them.

[0052] At the S reel motor, the capstan motor and the T reel motor,there are respectively provided FGs (Frequency Generators) which are norshown. Thus, rotation information of respective motors are detected. Thedetected rotation information of the motors are used in calculatingwinding radius information which is one of file information.

[0053] The S reel 12, the rotation drum 14, the capstan 15 and the Treel 17 of the magnetic tape drive unit drive the magnetic tape 11 asthe result of the fact that motors (not shown) which respectively drivethem are controlled by the CPU 8.

[0054] The signal processing section implements, e.g.,compression-encoding based on MPEG (Moving Picture Expert Group) to avideo signal inputted from the buffer memory 2, at the time ofrecording, to implement error correction encoding by the Reed-Solomonproduct code to the compression-encoded video signal and audio signalinputted from the buffer memory 2, to add error correction code tofurther add synchronization data and ID data thereafter to formchannel-coded serial data to record this data at a predetermined trackon the magnetic tape 11 by recording magnetic heads, record video signalat VIDEO track and audio signal at AUDIO track. The signal processingsection performs compression-encoding by MPEG to recordcompression-encoded video signal onto the magnetic tape 11 every 1 GOP.

[0055] A control signal used for tape drive servo control is recorded ata control track provided in the longitudinal direction on the magnetictape 11, and Time Code (TC) which is position information of videosignal recorded on the magnetic tape 11 is recorded at Time Code (TC)track.

[0056] Moreover, at the time of reproduction, the signal processingsection implements processing opposite to that at the time of recordingto video signal and/or audio signal which have been read out by thereproduction magnetic heads to output error-corrected audio signal tothe buffer memory 2, and to expansion-decode similarly error-correctedvideo signal to output it to the buffer memory 2.

[0057] At the VTR system unit 3, in accordance with command input fromcontrol panel 4 which will be described later, or in accordance with thecontrol based on file system of the CPU 8 which has received commandfrom file system control unit 5 which will be described later, themagnetic tape drive unit drives magnetic tape at a predetermined speed,and the signal processing section records video signal/audio signal ontothe magnetic tape 11, or reproduces video signal/audio signal from themagnetic tape 11.

[0058] The control panel 4 is an operation unit which inputs command forcontrolling a predetermined operation of the VTR system unit 3 that userdesignates. Command inputted from the control panel 4 is sent to the VTRsystem unit 3. User inputs, e.g., recording command for instructingrecording of video signal/audio signal from the control panel 4 onto themagnetic tape 11, reproduction command for instructing reproduction ofvideo signal/audio signal recorded on the magnetic tape 11, fast-forwardcommand for conducting fast-forward of the magnetic tape 11 and/orrewinding command for rewinding the magnetic tape 11, etc. It ispossible to record a predetermined video signal or audio signal onto themagnetic tape 11 without undergoing management by file system which willbe described later by command inputted from the control panel 4.

[0059] Subsequently, prior to explanation of respective functions of thefile system control unit 5, the ENC/DEC 6, the file system memory 7 andthe CPU 8 which take file management of the file system of the VTR,outline of the file management by the file system of the VTR shown asthe embodiment of the present invention will be explained.

[0060] The file system is a system for filing video signal/audio signalrecorded on the magnetic tape 11 to perform file management; on thebasis of file information. The file information used for file managementof the file system are stored and held at memory tags 25, which will bedescribed later, attached to video cassette 10 with respect to eachvideo cassette 10 where the files are recorded.

[0061] When video cassette 10 is loaded into the video cassette loadingunit (not shown) of the VTR, file information stored and held at thememory tag 25 is transmitted from the memory tag 25 to the ENC/DEC 6 ina non-contact state, and the transmitted file information is stored intothe file system memory 7. The file information which has been stored bythis file system memory 7 is caused to undergo management by the CPU 8in accordance with command of the file system control unit 5. Thus,e.g., preparation of new file and/or updating of file, etc. areexecuted. When file information of the file system memory 7 is changed,added (supplemented) or deleted, file information is transmitted in turnfrom the ENC/DEC 6 to the memory tag 25 in a manner opposite to theabove. Thus, file information of the memory tag 25 is also updated asoccasion demands.

[0062] The file system control unit 5 receives command for file control,e.g, FTP command relating to file transfer, etc., which is transmittedfrom the external unit through the network interface 1 to control theCPU 8 in accordance with the command to execute processing such asupdating/deletion of the content of file system stored in the filesystem memory 7 and/or addition (supplement) of new file, etc.

[0063] Here, the memory tag 25 for storing and holding file informationwhich is attached to the video cassette 10 will be explained.

[0064] The memory tag 25 includes therewithin an erasable IC memory 22in which record holding operation is unnecessary such as EEPROM(Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), anencoder/decoder (hereinafter referred to as ENC/DEC) 23 for encoding asignal received at coil antenna 24 which will be described later towrite the encoded signal into the IC memory 22 to read out informationstored in the IC memory 22 and decoding the information into apredetermined signal to send it to the coil antenna 24 which will bedescribed later, and a coil antenna 24 for electromagneticallyconducting supply of power and transmission/reception of signals, etc.and serves to perform transmission/reception of file information to andfrom the ENC/DEC 6 of the VTR in a non-contact state. The memory tag 25is included within a label 21 attached to the cassette half of the videocassette 10, wherein, e.g., title, etc. of the content recorded on themagnetic tape 11 is written onto the label 21 by hand-writing or print,etc.

[0065] File information is written into the IC memory 22 of the memorytag 25 attached to the cassette half of this video cassette 10 at thetime of recording onto the magnetic tape 11 of video signal. Moreover,when the video cassette is loaded into video cassette loading unit (notshown), file information stored in the IC memory 22 is read out, and isdeveloped in the file system memory 7 as file system.

[0066] Practical file information to be stored into the IC memory 22 ofthe memory tag 25 is shown below. The file information of each filestored on the magnetic tape 11 is file name information which is name(title) of the file, file start Time Code (TC) information which isrelative position information on the magnetic tape 11 of the file, filestart T side winding radius information which is absolute positioninformation on the magnetic tape 11 of the file, file end Time Code (TC)information which is relative position information on the magnetic tape11 of the file, file end T side winding radius information which isabsolute position information on the magnetic tape 11 of the file, filesize information indicating data size of the file, file access rightinformation indicating executable operation divisions with respect tothe file, e.g., possession, read, write and/or execution, etc., systeminformation indicating image system of video signal which is the file,e.g., NTSC (National Television System Committee), or PAL (PhaseAlternation by Line), etc, stream information indicating bit rate ofimage compressed by MPEG (Moving Picture Experts Group) system, filepreparation date information indicating date where the file has beenprepared, file preparation time information indicating time when thefile has been prepared, file updating date information indicating datewhen the file has been updated, and file updating time informationindicating time when the file has been updated, etc.

[0067] The encoder/decoder 6 includes coil antenna (not shown), andserves to conduct electromagnetic coupling between the coil antenna andthe coil antenna 24 within the memory tag 25 of the non-contact type tothereby supply power to the memory tag 25, and to conducttransmission/reception of file information to and from the memory tag25.

[0068] The ENC/DEC 6 encodes file information which has been transmittedfrom the coil antenna 24 of the memory tag 25 to send the encoded fileinformation to the file system memory 7 of the succeeding stage.Moreover, the ENC/DEC 6 reads out corresponding file information in thecase where the content of the file system is updated, or newlysupplemented (added) by control of file system control unit 5 which willbe described later to decode the file information into a predeterminedsignal to transmit file information from coil antenna (not shown) to thecoil antenna 24 of the memory tag 25.

[0069] The file system memory 7 is, e.g., a writable/readable RAM(Random Access Memory), etc., and stores, as file system, theabove-described file information which has been transmitted from thememory tag 25 to the ENC/DEC 6.

[0070] The CPU 8 controls respective units of the VTR in a generalizedmanner. Moreover, the CPU 8 reads, by command from the file systemcontrol unit 5, file information within the file system stored in thefile system memory 7 to control the operation of the VTR system unit 3,or update, delete or newly add, etc. the content of the file systemstored in the file system memory 7 on the basis of the file informationwhich has been read.

[0071] Subsequently, explanation will be given in connection with theoperation at the time of file transmission and the operation at the timeof file reception of the VTR shown as the embodiment of the presentinvention.

[0072] First, the operation at the time of file transmission of the VTRwill be explained by using the flowchart shown in FIG. 3.

[0073] At step S1, the CPU 8 retrieves, from the file system memory 7,file name information transmitted from external unit (not shown) to thefile system control unit 5 through, e.g., the network interface 1.

[0074] At step S2, the CPU 8 retrieves the file system memory 7 toacquire file start Time Code (TC) of file corresponding to the file nameinformation retrieved at the step S1.

[0075] At step S3, the CPU 8 controls the magnetic tape drive unit ofthe VTR system unit 3 to Cue Up to the preroll point slightly before thefile start Time Code (TC) acquired at the step S2 which exists on themagnetic tape 11.

[0076] At step S4, the CPU 8 controls the VTR system unit 3 to conduct acontrol so as to reproduce the magnetic tape 11 to reproduce file dataof the file to start transmitting operation. When the file data is beingtransmitted, Time Code (TC) is monitored at all times.

[0077] At step S5, the CPU 8 judges whether or not the Time Code (TC)being monitored is file end Time Code (TC). In the case where that TimeCode (TC) is the file end Time Code (TC), the processing is completed.In the case where that Time Code (TC) is not the file end Time Code, theCPU 8 controls the VTR system unit 3 to reproduce the magnetic tape 11to continuously execute transmission of file data of the file.

[0078] Then, explanation will be given by using the flowchart shown inFIG. 4 in connection with the operation at the time of reception of fileof the VTR.

[0079] At step S11, the CPU 8 receives file name of file transmittedfrom the external unit through the network interface 1 and the filesystem control unit 5 to hold the received file name.

[0080] At step S12, the CPU 8 receives file data through the interface 1to send instruction of recording (REC) or edit (ASSEMBLE, etc.) to theVTR system unit 3 in accordance with the fact that file data which hasbeen stored in the buffer memory 2 becomes equal to a predeterminedquantity to start recording onto the magnetic tape 11 of the receivedfile data. The CPU 8 holds recording start Time Code (TC) simultaneouslywith recording start onto the magnetic tape 11 to always count Time Code(TC) during recording of file data onto the magnetic tape 11 to controlthe VTR system unit 3 so as to write Time Code (TC) at Time Code (TC)track of the magnetic tape 11.

[0081] At step S13, the CPU 8 judges whether or not transmittingoperation of file data from external unit is completed. In the casewhere transmitting operation has been completed, the processing proceedsto step S14. In the case where transmitting operation is not completed,the CPU 8 continues recording operation of the VTR system unit 3 as itis.

[0082] At the step S14, the CPU 8 acquires end Time Code (TC) inaccordance with the fact that transmitting operation of file data fromexternal unit has been completed to control the VTR system unit 3 tostop recording operation.

[0083] At step S15, the CPU 8 prepares a new file from file nameinformation, start Time Code (TC), end Time Code (TC), recording sizeand other information which have been held to update file information ofthe file system memory 7.

[0084] At step S16, the CPU 8 controls the encoder/decoder 6 to decodethe file information which has been updated at the step S15 to transmitthe decoded file information to the coil antenna 24 of the memory tag 25as a predetermined signal. In accordance with this transmittingoperation, the encoder/decoder 23 of the memory tag 25 encodes thepredetermined signal received at the coil antenna 24 to write theencoded signal into the IC memory 22 as file information.

[0085] In this way, the VTR of the present invention allows the memorytag 25 attached to the video cassette 10 to store file information offile to read file information into the file system memory 7 as a filesystem in accordance with the fact that the video cassette 10 has beenloaded to perform file management based on the file system by the filesystem control unit 5, thereby making it possible to easily provideaccess to the file system also in the file processing, e.g.,transmission of file and/or reception of file.

[0086] Then, explanation will be given by using the flowchart shown inFIG. 5 in connection with the operation in directly controlling the VTRsystem unit 3 without using the file system to record predeterminedinformation onto the magnetic tape 11 in the VTR shown as the embodimentof the present invention.

[0087] First, at step S21, by user, recording (REC) command instructingrecording of predetermined video signal/audio signal from the controlpanel 4 onto the magnetic tape 11 is inputted. The inputted recording(REC) command is sent to the CPU 8 through the VTR system unit 3.

[0088] At step S22, the CPU 8 acquires file start Time Code (TC)information and file end Time Code (TC) information of all files fromthe file system stored in the file system memory 7.

[0089] At step S23, the CPU 8 judges from the file start Time Code (TC)information and the file end Time Code (TC) information of all fileswhich have been acquired at the step S22 whether or not the position onthe magnetic tape 11 where recording (REC) command has been inputted isfile area. In the case where that position is the file area, the CPU 8stops recording operation of the VTR system unit 3. In the case wherethat position is not the file area, processing proceeds to step S24.

[0090] At the step S24, the CPU 8 controls the VTR system unit 3 tostart recording of video signal and/or audio signal onto the magnetictape 11.

[0091] At step S25, the CPU 8 extracts Time Code (TC) recorded at TimeCode (TC) track of the magnetic tape for a time period during whichrecording is executed at the VTR system unit 3.

[0092] At step S26, the CPU 8 compares the Time Code (TC) extracted atthe step S25 and the file start Time Code (TC) information and the fileend Time Code (TC) information of all files which have been acquired atthe step S22 to judge whether or not the position on the magnetic tape11 being reproduced is the file area. In the case where that position isthe file area, the CPU 8 stops recording operation of the VTR systemunit 3. In the case where that position is not the file area, processingproceeds to step S27.

[0093] At the step S27, the CPU 8 judges whether or not STOP commandwhich is command for stopping recording operation onto the magnetic tape11 is inputted by user from the control panel 4 during recordingoperation onto the magnetic tape 11 by the VTR system unit 3. The CPU 8conducts a control so that in the case where STOP command is inputted,recording operation of the VTR system unit 3 is stopped, and in the casewhere STOP command is not inputted, recording operation by the VTRsystem unit 3 is continued.

[0094] In a manner as stated above, the VTR shown as the embodiment ofthe present invention directly controls the VTR system unit 3 withoutintervention of the file system conventionally executed at the VTRalthough management of video signal and/or audio signal recorded ontothe magnetic tape 11 is performed by the file system to have ability toexecute recording operation implemented onto the magnetic tape 11.

[0095] Then, explanation will be given in connection with the operationin freely preparing file irrespective of the file system in the casewhere independent data such as image data, etc. are recorded on themagnetic tape 11 that the video cassette 10 has in the VTR shown as theembodiment of the present invention.

[0096] First, explanation will be given by using the flowchart shown inFIG. 6 in connection with an operation to record, on the basis of thefile system, predetermined information onto the magnetic tape 11 thatthe video cassette 10 has to prepare file in the VTR shown as theembodiment of the present invention.

[0097] At step S31, the file system control unit 5 receives, through thenetwork interface 1, STORE command which is a command for recording apredetermined file transferred from external unit onto the magnetic tape11, or APPEND command which is a command for adding (supplementing) andwriting a predetermined file into a space (empty) area of the magnetictape 11.

[0098] At step S32, the file system control unit 5 controls the CPU 8 toacquire file information stored in the file system memory 7. Forexample, when file X is assumed to be recorded in advance on themagnetic tape 11 as shown in FIG. 7A, the CPU 8 acquires fileinformation of the file X.

[0099] At step S33, the CPU 8 controls the VTR system unit 3 on thebasis of the file information acquired at the step S32 to Cue Up to theposition except for the file area of the magnetic tape 11. For example,the CPU 8 Cues Up in the area except for the file area of the file Xshown in FIG. 7A.

[0100] At step S34, the CPU 8 controls the VTR system unit 3 to startrecording of a predetermined data transferred from external unit throughthe network interface 1 from the position where Cue Up operation hasbeen conducted.

[0101] At step S35, the CPU 8 extracts Time Code (TC) on the magnetictape 11.

[0102] At step S36, the CPU 8 compares the Time Code extracted at thestep S35 and file information acquired at the step S32 to judge whetheror not the position on the magnetic tape 11 where data is recorded atpresent is file area. In the case where that position is the file area,processing proceeds to step S37. In the case where that position is notthe file area, processing proceeds to step S38.

[0103] At the step S37, the CPU 8 stops recording of data because thecurrent position on the magnetic tape 11 is the file area, andtransmits, to the external unit, a message which notifies that transferof data has become error.

[0104] In the case where transfer of data is completed so that recordingonto the magnetic tape 11 has been completed at the step S38, processingby the CPU 8 proceeds to step S39. In the case where transfer of data isnot completed, the CPU 8 continues transfer of data while extracting theTime Code (TC).

[0105] At the step S39, the CPU 8 controls the VTR system unit 3 toprepare file of data recorded on the magnetic tape 11. For example, whenfile Y is assumed to be prepared as shown in FIG. 7B, the file Y will bewritten into a data recording area except for the area of file X whichhas been recorded in advance on the magnetic tape 11.

[0106] File information of the prepared file is written into the filesystem memory 7 by the CPU 8 in accordance with control of the filesystem control unit 5.

[0107] As stated above, the file system is used so that new file isprepared in an area except for the file area of the file X

[0108] Subsequently, explanation will be given by using the flowchartshown in FIG. 8 in connection with the operation to freely file,irrespective of the file system, a predetermined information recorded inadvance on the magnetic tape 11 that the video cassette 10 has toprepare file in the VTR shown as the embodiment of the presentinvention.

[0109] A video signal filed as file A as shown in FIG. 9A, for example,is assumed to be recorded in advance on the magnetic tape 11. Inaddition, a video signal is assumed to be recorded on the magnetic tape11 without using the file system by instruction from the control panel4.

[0110] First, at step S41, the file system control unit 5 receives filename information given to file to be prepared, which is transmitted fromexternal unit (not shown) through network interface, to send thereceived file name information to the CPU 8. For example, the CPU 8acquires file name information of file B.

[0111] At step S42, the CPU 8 controls the VTR system unit 3 to run themagnetic tape 11 to Cue Up to the position serving as file start point.For example, when file start point of the file B is assumed to be theposition indicated as “BS” within file A as shown in FIG. 9B, Cue Upoperation to the position of “BS” is conducted. When Cue Up operationhas been conducted, processing proceeds to step S43.

[0112] At the step S43, the CPU 8 acquires Time Code (TC) of Cued Upfile and winding radius information of the T reel 17 to allow them to berespectively file start Time Code (TC) information and file start T sidewinding radius information.

[0113] At step S44, the CPU 8 controls the VTR system unit 3 to run themagnetic tape 11 to Cue Up to the position caused to serve as file endpoint. For example, when the file end point of the file B is assumed tobe the position indicated as “BE” as shown in FIG. 9B, Cue Up operationto the position of “BE” is conducted. When Cue Up operation isconducted, processing proceeds to step S45.

[0114] At the step S45, the CPU 8 acquires Time Code (TC) of the Cued Upfile and winding radius information of the T reel 17 to allow them to berespectively file end Time Code (TC) information and file end T sidewinding radius information.

[0115] At step S46, the CPU 8 acquires current date and current time.

[0116] At step S47, the CPU 8 allows data recorded from the position of“BS” of the magnetic tape 11 to the position of “BE” thereof to be fileB.

[0117] The file B prepared in this way is such that video signalrecorded from the position of “BS” to the position of “AE” on themagnetic tape 11 is caused to overlap with the file A as shown in FIG.9B. As a result, file is prepared irrespective of the file system.

[0118] Thus, as shown in FIG. 10, for example, long time recorded videofile 30 can be properly used as short time video file 31 or still imagefile 32.

[0119] Subsequently, explanation will be given in connection with theoperation in providing access to desired information (desired file)filed and recorded by the file system onto the magnetic tape 11 that thevideo cassette 10 has in the VTR shown as the embodiment of the presentinvention.

[0120] In the conventional VTR, access to desired information wasexecuted by using Time Code (TC) recorded along with a predeterminedinformation on the magnetic tape 11 and visual sense or auditory senseof user.

[0121] In the VTR shown as the embodiment of the present invention,access to a desired information (desired file) filed by the file systemis provided by using winding radius information of S reel 12 and T reel17 of the magnetic tape 11 in addition to conventionally used Time Code(TC).

[0122] In view of the above, how to determine winding radius informationof the S reel 12 and the T reel 17 which are necessary at the time offile access operation at VTR shown as the embodiment of the presentinvention will be first explained.

[0123] The winding radius information is one of file information to bestored into the file system memory 7 as the file system similarly to theTime Code (TC) information, and while the Time Code (TC) information isinformation indicating relative position of file recorded on themagnetic tape 11, the winding radius information is informationindicating absolute position of file recorded on the magnetic tape 11.The winding radius information is generated by the CPU 8 at the time ofpreparation of file, and is stored into the file system memory 7 as fileinformation.

[0124] In order to run the magnetic tape 11 at low speed, e.g., toperform reproduction operation, it is necessary to stably run themagnetic tape 11 at a predetermined speed. For this reason, the magnetictape 11 is caused to be in pressure contact with the capstan 15 whichruns the magnetic tape 11 by the pinch roller 16 to run the magnetictape 11 in such a manner that the capstan 15, the S reel 12 and the Treel 17 are caused to be interlocked with each other. On the contrary,in the case where the magnetic tape 11 is run at a high speed, the pinchroller 16 is away from the capstan 15 thereafter to run the magnetictape 11 as the result of the fact that the S reel 12 and the T reel 17are interlocked with each other. When the magnetic tape 11 is run inthis way, radii of the S reel 12 and the T reel 17 (hereinafter referredto as winding radius) will change momentarily.

[0125] Meanwhile, since there is no possibility that the magnetic tape11 may be wound onto the capstan 15, movement quantity of the magnetictape can be easily determined from the number of rotations and the shaftdiameter of the capstan 15.

[0126] Accordingly, in the state where the pinch roller 16 is caused tobe in pressure contact with the capstan 15 (hereinafter referred to asON mode as occasion may demand), i.e., when the magnetic tape 11 is runat low speed, movement quantity of the tape is determined from thenumber of rotations of the capstan 15 and the shaft diameter of thecapstan 15 to divide the movement quantity thus determined by theproducts of respective numbers of rotations of the S reel 12 and the Treel 17 and 271, thereby making it possible to determine winding radiiof the S reel and the T reel.

[0127] Moreover, in the state where the pinch roller 16 is away from thecapstan 15 (hereinafter referred to as OFF mode as occasion may demand),i.e., when the magnetic tape 11 is run at a high speed, it is possibleto determine winding radii of the S reel 12 and the T reel 17 by amethod indicated below.

[0128] When the winding radius of the S reel 12 is assumed to be Rso andthe winding radius of the T reel 17 is assumed to be Rto, Total VolumeTv of the magnetic tape 11 is winding radius of circle having areaobtained by adding area of circle where the winding radius is Rso andarea of circle where the winding radius is Rto. Accordingly, therelationship as indicated by the equation (1) is obtained.

π·Tv ² =π·Rso ² +π·Rto ²  (1)

[0129] Moreover, the equation (1)′ is obtained from the equation (1).

Tv ² =Rso ² +Rto ²  (1)′

[0130] By taking into consideration the fact that projection area of themagnetic tape 11 is invariable, the equation (1) holds also inconnection with the winding radius Rs of the S reel 12 and the windingradius Rt of the T reel 17 at an arbitrary time. When winding radius Rsand winding radius Rt are substituted into the equation (1)′, theequation (1)″ is obtained.

Tv ² =Rs ² +Rt ²  (1)″

[0131] Here, when ratio between the winding radius Rs of the S reel 12and the winding radius Rt of the T reel 17 is expressed as Ratio=Rt/Rs,the equation (2) and the equation (3) are obtained. $\begin{matrix}{{Rs} = \frac{Tv}{\sqrt{1 + {Ratio}^{2}}}} & (2)\end{matrix}$

 Rt=Rs·Ratio  (3)

[0132] From the above fact, the winding radius Rs of the S reel 12 andthe winding radius Rt of the T reel can be determined by the TotalVolume Tv of the magnetic tape 11 and the Ratio.

[0133]FIG. 11 is a view in which constants and variables which arenecessary in calculating the winding radii Rs, Rt are indicated.

[0134] The Total Volume Tv of the magnetic tape 11 and the Ratio can bedetermined by executing the following steps of (A) to (C).

[0135] (A) First, when the video cassette 10 is loaded into the loadingunit (not shown) of the VTR, the CPU 8 controls the VTR system unit 3 torun the magnetic tape 11 by the capstan 15 to determine the Total VolumeTvo serving as reference by the following equations at the time pointwhen the number of counts SRCFG of FG (Frequency Generator) provided atthe capstan motor is expressed as |SRCFG|>SRCFG1.${Rso} = \frac{{Rc} \times {{SRCFG}}}{{SRSFG}}$${Rto} = \frac{{Rc} \times {{SRCFG}}}{{SRTFG}}$${Tvo} = \sqrt{{Rso}^{2} + {Rto}^{2}}$

[0136] (B) Further, the CPU 8 controls the VTR system unit 3 to run themagnetic tape 11 by the capstan 15 to determine the Total Volume SRtmpby the following equations at the time point when SRCFG becomes|SRCFG|>SRCFG2. $\begin{matrix}{{{Rso} = \frac{{Rc} \times {{SRCFG}}}{{SRSFG}}}{{Rto} = \frac{{Rc} \times {{SRCFG}}}{{SRTFG}}}{{SRtmp} = \sqrt{{Rso}^{2} + {Rto}^{2}}}{{{Tvo} \times \frac{\left( {1000 - {Swind1}} \right)}{1000}} < {SRtmp} < {{Tvo} \times \frac{\left( {1000 + {Swind1}} \right)}{1000}}}} & (4)\end{matrix}$

[0137] In the case where the calculated Total Volume SRtmp satisfies therange indicated by the equation (4), processing proceeds to thesubsequent step. In the case where the calculated Total Volume SRtmpdoes not satisfy that range, measured values of SRCFG, SRSFG and SRTFGwhich have been counted by respective FGs of the capstan 15, the S reel12 and the T reel 17 are reset to repeat the step of (A) for a secondtime.

[0138] (C) Since the calculated SRtmp has satisfied the equation (4),Tvo is caused to be equal to SRtmp to further run the magnetic tape 11by the capstan 15 to determine Total Volume SRtmp by the followingequations at the time point when SRCFG becomes |SRCFG|>SRCGF3.$\begin{matrix}{{{Rso} = \frac{{Rc} \times {{SRCFG}}}{{SRSFG}}}{{Rto} = \frac{{Rc} \times {{SRCFG}}}{{SRTFG}}}{{SRtmp} = \sqrt{{Rso}^{2} + {Rto}^{2}}}{{{Tvo} \times \frac{\left( {1000 - {Swind2}} \right)}{1000}} < {SRtmp} < {{Tvo} \times \frac{\left( {1000 + {Swind2}} \right)}{1000}}}} & (5)\end{matrix}$

[0139] In the case where the calculated Total Volume SRtmp does notsatisfy the range indicated by the equation (5), measured values ofSRCFG, SRSFG, SRTFG which have been counted at respective FGs of thecapstan 15, the S reel 12 and the T reel 17 are reset to repeat the stepof (A) for a second time. In the case where the calculated Total Volumesatisfies the equation (5), the Total Volume Tv and Ratio are determinedas follows.

Tv=SRtmp ${Ratio} = \frac{1000 \times {{SRTFG}}}{{SRSFG}}$

[0140] In a manner as stated above, when the video cassette 10 is loadedinto loading unit (not shown) of the VTR, Total Volume Tv and Ratiowhich are necessary for calculating the winding radius Rs of the S reel12 and the winding radius Rt of the T reel 17 are determined, and areheld at the CPU 8.

[0141] <Calculation of the Winding Radii Rs, Rt in the OFF Mode>

[0142] The CPU 8 resets measured values of SRSFG and SRTFG which havebeen counted at respective FGs of the S reel 12 and the T reel 17 to runthe magnetic tape 11 by the capstan 15 to determine Ratio tmp by thefollowing equations at the time point when Rwind<|SRSFG| andRwind<|SRTFG| hold. $\begin{matrix}{{{tmp} = \frac{1000 \times {{SRTFG}}}{{SRSFG}}}{{{Ratio} \times \frac{\left( {1000 - {Rwind}} \right)}{1000}} < {tmp} < {{Ratio} \times \frac{\left( {1000 + {Rwind}} \right)}{1000}}}} & (6)\end{matrix}$

[0143] In the case where the calculated tmp does not satisfy theequation (6), the Ratio is as indicated below. $\begin{matrix}{{Ratio} = {{Ratio} + {\frac{{Ratio} \times {Rwind}}{1000}\left( {{{when}\quad {tmp}} > {Ratio}} \right)}}} \\{{Ratio} = {{Ratio} - {\frac{{Ratio} \times {Rwind}}{1000}\left( {{{when}\quad {tmp}} < {Ratio}} \right)}}}\end{matrix}$

[0144] Conversely, in the case where the calculated tmp satisfies theequation (6), Ratio becomes equal to tmp, and winding radius Rs of the Sreel 12 and winding radius Rt of the T reel 17 are determined in amanner as indicated below.

tmp={square root}{fraction (1000²+Ratio)}${tmp} = \sqrt{1000^{2} + {Ratio}}$${Rs} = \frac{{Tv} \times 1000}{tmp}$${Rt} = \frac{{Rs} \times {Ratio}}{1000}$

[0145] In general, when the magnetic tape is wound in roll form, airlayer takes place between the magnetic tape and the magnetic tape, orthe tape end is apt to be twisted. For this reason, the larger thewinding radius of the tape becomes, the more error will be included inthe winding radius of the tape. Moreover, at the magnetic tape 11 of thevideo cassette 10, there are many cases where file is prepared mainlynear the beginning of the tape. In this case, since the winding quantityof the magnetic tape 11 of the S reel 12 is large, there is highpossibility that winding radius information of the S reel 12 may includeerror. Accordingly, at the VTR shown as the embodiment of the presentinvention, winding radius information of the T reel 17 side is assumedto be used as winding radius information.

[0146] On the premise that the winding radius information is obtained ina manner as stated above, explanation will be given by using theflowchart shown in FIG. 12 in connection with access operation to filerecorded on the magnetic tape 11 of the VTR shown as the embodiment ofthe present invention.

[0147] First, at step S51, user designates, e.g., from the control panel4, file name of file that he desires to access and time code of adesired position of the file. The CPU 8 reads out, by the designatedfile name, file start T side winding radius information of designatedfile stored in the file system memory 7.

[0148] At step S52, the CPU 8 runs, on the basis of file start T sidewinding radius information which has been read out at the step S51, themagnetic tape 11 to the point of −α which is the portion in the vicinityof file start T side winding radius, e.g., −1 mm point to control theVTR system unit 3 so that Cue Up operation is conducted.

[0149] At step S53, the CPU 8 judges whether or not Cue Up operation hasbeen completed. In the case where the Cue Up operation has beencompleted, processing proceeds to step S54. In the case where the Cue Upoperation is not yet completed, the CPU 8 controls the VTR system unit 3so that the Cue Up operation is continued as it is.

[0150] At step S54, the CPU 8 controls the VTR system unit 3 toreproduce the magnetic tape 11 to retrieve Time Code (TC) designated byuser.

[0151] At step S55, the CPU 8 judges whether or not Time Code (TC)extracted as the result of the fact that the magnetic tape 11 isreproduced is a desired Time Code (TC) designated by user. In the casewhere that time Code (TC) is the desired Time Code (TC), processing iscompleted. In the case where that time code (TC) is not the desired TimeCode (TC), the CPU 8 continues processing which retrieves the Time Code.

[0152] In a manner as stated above, the VTR serves to store, into thefile system memory 7, file start T side winding radius information asone of file information to use Time Code (TC) information and file startT side winding radius information at the time of access to the file,thereby making it possible to securely execute access to a desired fileon the magnetic tape 11.

[0153] It is to be noted that the above-described method of calculatingthe winding radius Rs of the S reel 12 and the winding radius Rt of theT reel 17 is one example, and various techniques can be applied withoutlimiting to such calculation method.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0154] As is clear from the above explanation, the informationprocessing apparatus of the present invention is adapted to record imageinformation and/or audio information onto replaceable tape-shapedrecording medium by recording means to file, by filing means, the imageinformation and/or the audio information which have been written ontothe replaceable tape-shaped recording medium by the recording means towrite and read, in a non-contact state, file information of file intorandom accessible memory means provided in a manner associated with thereplaceable tape-shaped recording medium by file informationwriting/reading means, thereby making it possible to facilitate accessto file system in performing management of image information and/oraudio information which have been recorded on the tape-shaped recordingmedium in the state where those information are filed.

[0155] As is clear from the above explanation, the informationprocessing apparatus of the present invention can perform management offile to be recorded onto the tape-shaped recording medium by the filesystem, and can also record predetermined image information and/or audioinformation onto the tape-shaped recording medium without using the filesystem in a manner free from paying attention to file recorded on thetape-shaped recording medium.

[0156] As is clear from the above explanation, at the informationprocessing apparatus of the present invention, in the case where newfile is prepared on tape-shaped recording medium where files have beenalready recorded, file preparation means files predetermined imageinformation and/or audio information as a new file in accordance withfile preparation instruction generated at instruction generating meansirrespective of file area where files have been prepared, thereby makingit possible to freely prepare file from predetermined image informationand/or audio information which have been recorded on the tape-shapedrecording medium.

[0157] Moreover, since the information processing apparatus of thepresent invention can prepare new file where image information and/oraudio information of file which have been already recorded on thetape-shaped recording medium overlapping with each other, it becomespossible to effectively utilize recording capacity of the tape-shapedrecording medium.

[0158] As is clear from the above explanation, the informationprocessing apparatus of the present invention uses winding radiusinformation of wound tape-shaped recording medium in addition to TimeCode information conventionally used, thereby making it possible tosecurely provide access to image information and/or audio informationwithin desired file recorded on the tape-shaped recording medium withoutdepending upon visual sense or auditory sense of user.

[0159] Further, the information processing apparatus of the presentinvention first provides, by using winding radius information, access tofile recording start point of file which has been recorded on thetape-shaped recording medium in providing access to image informationand/or audio information within desired file. For this reason, ascompared to the case where the tape-shaped recording medium isreproduced to provide access using only Time Code information, accesstime to image information and/or audio information within desired filecan be greatly reduced.

[0160] As is clear from the above explanation, the informationprocessing method of the present invention includes: recording imageinformation and/or audio information onto replaceable tape-shapedrecording medium; filing the image information and/or the audioinformation which have been written onto the replaceable tape-shapedrecording medium; writing, in a non-contact state, file information offile into random accessible memory means provided in a manner associatedwith the replaceable tape-shaped recording medium; and reading, in anon-contact state, the file information which has been written into thememory means, thereby making it possible to facilitate access to filesystem in performing management of image information and/or audioinformation which have been recorded on the tape-shaped recording mediumin the state where they are filed.

1. An information processing apparatus comprising: recording means forrecording image information and/or audio information onto a replaceabletape-shaped recording medium; filing means for filing the imageinformation and/or the audio information which have been written on thereplaceable tape-shaped recording medium by the recording means; andfile information writing/reading means for writing and reading, in anon-contact state, file information of the file into random accessiblememory means provided in a manner associated with the replaceabletape-shaped recording medium.
 2. The information processing apparatus asset forth in claim 1, comprising: reproducing means for reproducingimage information and/or audio information which have been recorded onthe replaceable tape-shaped recording medium; file system memory meansfor storing, as file system, file information which has been read out bythe file information writing/reading means; and management means forperforming management of files which have been recorded on thetape-shaped recording medium in accordance with the file system.
 3. Theinformation processing apparatus as set forth in claim 1, comprising:transmitting/receiving means for receiving image information and/oraudio information transmitted from external, and for transmitting, tothe external, the image information and/or the audio information whichhave been reproduced by the reproducing means.
 4. The informationprocessing apparatus as set forth in claim 2, comprising: control meansfor conducting a control so as to record image information and/or audioinformation onto the tape-shaped recording medium by the recording meansin accordance with access through the file system, or access withoutintervention of the file system, wherein the control means controls, inrecording image information and/or audio information onto thetape-shaped recording medium without intervention of the file system,the recording means so as to limit recording of the image informationand/or the audio information on the basis of the file system.
 5. Theinformation processing apparatus as set forth in claim 4, comprising:time code information acquisition means for acquiring time codeinformation of all files, wherein the control means controls therecording means, on the basis of time code information which has beenacquired by the time code information acquisition means, so as to limitrecording onto the recording medium of the image information and/or theaudio information.
 6. The information processing apparatus as set forthin claim 5, comprising time code information extraction means forcontinuously extracting time code information for a time period duringwhich the image information and/or the audio information are recorded bythe recording means, wherein the control means compares time codeinformation extracted by the time code information extraction means andtime code information acquired by the time code information acquisitionmeans to control the recording means so as to limit recording onto therecording medium of the image information and/or the audio information.7. The information processing apparatus as set forth in claim 6, whereinthe control means controls the recording means so as to stop recordingonto the recording medium of the image information and/or the audioinformation in accordance with the fact that time code informationextracted by the time code extraction means and time code informationacquired by the time code information acquisition means have overlappedwith each other.
 8. The information processing apparatus as set forth inclaim 4, wherein the control means controls the recording means so as torecord, as file, the image information and/or the audio information inthe case where there exists a recording area except for file area of therecording medium from time code information indicating position on therecording medium of file recorded onto the recording medium inaccordance with access through the file system.
 9. The informationprocessing apparatus as set forth in claim 4, wherein the control meanscontrols the recording means so as to record the image informationand/or the audio information in the case where there exists anunrecorded area in a recording area on the recording medium from timecode information which is position information on the recording medium.10. The information processing apparatus as set forth in claim 1,comprising: instruction generating means for generating a filepreparation instruction which instructs file preparation to the filingmeans which files the image information and/or the audio informationwhich are recorded on the tape-shaped recording medium, wherein thefiling means files, as a new file, the image information and/or theaudio information in accordance with the file preparation instructiongenerated by the instruction generating means, irrespective of file areawhere file is prepared, in the case where the new file is prepared onthe recording medium where the file has been already recorded.
 11. Theinformation processing apparatus as set forth in claim 10, wherein thefiling means prepares the new file within a new file area including anarea overlapping with the file area.
 12. The information processingapparatus as set forth in claim 10, wherein the file is an image fileconsisting of image information of GOP (Group of Picture) unit.
 13. Theinformation processing apparatus as set forth in claim 1, wherein thetape-shaped recording medium is wound on a pair of reels.
 14. Theinformation processing apparatus as set forth in claim 13, comprising:driving means for driving the tape-shaped recording medium; windingradius information calculating means for calculating winding radiusinformation indicating winding radius at a recording starting point offile recorded on the tape-shaped recording medium wound on the pair ofreels; memory means for storing time code information indicatingposition within the file of information recorded as the file on thetape-shaped recording medium and the winding radius informationcalculated by the winding radius information calculating means in such amanner associated with the file; and access control means forcontrolling the driving means on the basis of the time code informationand the winding radius information which have been read out from thememory means to perform access control with respect to the information.15. The information processing apparatus as set forth in claim 14,comprising: extraction means for extracting the time code informationrecorded on the tape-shaped recording medium, wherein the access controlmeans controls the driving means until the time code corresponding tothe information to be accessed is extracted by the extraction means toperform driving operation.
 16. An information processing methodincluding: recording image information and/or audio information onto areplaceable tape-shaped recording medium; filing the image informationand/or the audio information which have been written onto thereplaceable tape-shaped recording medium; writing, in a non-contactstate, file information of the file into random accessible memory meansprovided in a manner associated with the replaceable tape-shapedrecording medium; and reading, in a non-contact state, file informationof the file which has been written into the memory means.